Published Nov 4, 2016
Rivalry Week: Army vs. Air Force
Courtesy of Army West Point Sports Communications
Special to GoBlackKnights.com

Army West Point Feature Friday: The Marshall Plaque

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There are college football traditions all over this country, but few have more significance than touching the Marshall Plaque before running onto Blaik Field at Michie Stadium. At every game, home or away, Army West Point Football players will take the field after placing their hands as they pass by the bronze Marshall Plaque which is held by an Army officer with affiliations to the team.

Gen. George C. Marshall, then-Chief of Staff for the U.S. Army, needed an officer to train and lead a ranger-type battalion on a secret mission. He requested the Secretary of the General Staff to obtain this officer. Little did the famous Virginia Military Institute graduate realize, but he was furnishing the words that later were to become of utmost importance to the U.S. Military Academy. His orders were simple and concise.

"I want an officer for a secret and dangerous mission. I want a West Point Football player!"